MUSEUMS IN INDIA

 MUSEUMS IN INDIA

WHAT IS MUSEUM ?

It is said by some people that museums an meant for entertainment. On the other hand, some people say that they are only meant for education.

In modern era, Museum approach as a prominent aspect of education and entertainment. It contributes to the attraction of country and beneficial for the enhancement of educational knowledge. There is a tendency to believe that museums must be utilized for entertainment as well as for education. Lets delve deeper into the topic to seek more clarification.

To begin with, One of the main arguments in favor of that museums are meant for entertainment because museums are tourists attraction and their aim to exhibit the collection of things which majority of people wish to see. It is favorable to enhance economical growth of a particular country and raise the standard of living due to numerous visitors from various countries. It sounds as adventurous activity and more enjoyable for visitors.Moreover,visitors can get information about history and biography of country.

On the other hand, Some people argued that museums should focus on education because its a huge source of knowledge which they did not previously know.Usually this means history behind the museum exhibits need to explained and this can be done in various ways. Some museums employ special guides to give information, whileother museums offer headsets so that people can listen to detailed commentary about the exhibition. In this way, museums play an important role in teaching people about history,culture, science and many other aspects of life.

In an ultimate analysis, the above argument would indicate that museum must be utilize for both purposes entertainment and education. These both aspects beneficial in different ways. However,a good museum should be able to offer an interesting, enjoyable and educational experience. So that people have fun and learn something at the same time.

v ACHARYA JOGESH CHANDRA PARAKRITI BHAVAN

With a focus on art and archaeology, this museum houses exhibits such as metal ornaments, terracotta sculptures etc., which date back to Mesolithic and Palaeolithic ages. Coins and artefacts dating to the Gupta period and the Pala kings are also kept, along with a rare collection of manuscripts, photographs, art and paintings. The museum has a section for music dedicated to the musical culture of the famous Bishnupur Gharana. Musical instruments and photographs displayed here reflect that legacy. It also houses contemporary art and paintings, manuscripts and rare photographs. Visitors can get a glimpse of the rich treasure of the Purakriti Bhavan Museum on Saturdays and Sundays. The building of the museum is also attractive, thanks to its unique architectural style.

 

 AHAR MUSEUM

Located on the outskirts of Udaipur, Ahar, which looks like a city of tombs, is the cremation ground of the rulers of Mewar. Also a renowned archaeological site, Ahar has 372 cenotaphs of kings and queens of Mewar and was built over 400 years. Nineteen maharanas were cremated here, and the most striking cenotaph is that of Maharana Sangram Singh (1710 to 34). These cenotaphs are made of marble with fine carvings etched into them. The cenotaph of Sangram Singh has 56 pillars with an octagonal dome at the centre supported by eight smaller pillars. Nearby is a small museum with a rare collection of antiques. The archeological museum houses antiques that date back to the 10th century. Some of them include earthen pots, iron objects, etc. There is also a metal figure of Lord Buddha that dates back to the 10th century along with grain pots, skin scrubbers, balls and seals belonging to 1st century BC.

 

v AIRFORCE MUSEUM

This spectacular museum lies at the Palam Air Force Station and displays a fine and dynamic collection of armoury and aeroplanes, which reflect the glorious history of the Indian Air Force. The museum is a tribute to the great achievements of India’s flying force, and eloquently highlights its role in peace-keeping.

v ALBERT HALL MUSEUM

A magnificent building built in Indo-Saracenic architectural style, Albert Hall Museum (Central Museum) is located in Ram Nivas Garden. It draws its name from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. Its corridors are decorated with murals reflecting various civilisations. Currently, the museum houses a diverse range of wood crafts, stone and metal sculptures, metal objects, carpets, natural stones, arms and weapons and goods made out of ivory. The museum also displays art from the Kota, Bundi, Udaipur, Kishangarh and Jaipur schools of art. The building's foundation stone was laid during the visit of Prince of Wales, Albert Edward to Jaipur in 1876 and it was completed in 1887 by architect Samuel Swinton Jacob, the then director of Jaipur PWD.

 

v ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

A historian's delight, the Archaeological Museum in Lothal, abounds in heritage. The highlights on display are remnants, such as games, weights, jewellery and seals, from the Indus Valley Civilisation. You can also find many interesting animal figurines on display. The figurine of a rhino, as archaeologists say, shows that the animal was once present in the area and the landscape comprised a swampy and green scenery. Another intriguing figurine is that of a gorilla that has left historians scratching their heads on how people living here knew what a gorilla was supposed to look like. The museum traces 4,500 years of history of Lothal and one can delve into all the interesting tidbits to their heart’s contents.

v AROCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM IN INDIA

Archaeological Society of India Museum houses an excellent collection of various Buddhist and Hindu relics, mostly related to the Pala period (8th to 12th centuries). Established in 1956, the museum has two galleries and an open courtyard, along with two verandahs that boast various antiques. One can find exhibits of bronze statues, terracotta items, images of Lord Buddha and stone sculptures, along with pillars, railings, panels, rods, plaques etc. It is located inside the Mahabodhi Temple complex. The second gallery of the museum houses an idol of the varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu and visitors can also learn about the dasavatara (10-avatar) incarnation of the deity. While it is quite difficult to encapsulate the vast history of Bodh Gaya and the richness of Buddhist culture, this museum is an attempt to make research and understanding easier.

 

v BAY ISLAND DRIFTWOOD MUSEUM

It's only when you visit the unique Bay Island Driftwood Museum that it dawns on you that creativity can transform a discarded item into a work of art. The museum houses unique artworks made with driftwoods (pieces of wood washed ashore by waves), and is one of its kind in the country. The sculptures have been recognised as a form of modern art. Root sculptures of various shapes and designs are the main attraction. It is said that all the items showcased have been collected from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, in the Bay of Bengal. The sea brings along ancient trees and roots, especially during cyclones, and these are left behind on shores when the water recedes. Then, they are gathered and carved into forms of animals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and fish. The museum also showcases the process of the same. Almost all exhibits at the museum have a brief history written on a plaque placed below them.

 

v BIRLA INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL MUSEUM

 

A highly engaging museum for kids and adults alike, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum makes for an interesting visit. It has 12 galleries, including Fascinating Physics, Transport, Motive Power, Biotechnology, Metals, Electricity, Television, Life Science, Underground Coal Mine (a mock-up), Popular Science, Mathematics and Children’s Gallery. It is the first scientific and industrial museum in India and is situated on Gurusaday Road. There are regular science shows and sky observation programmes organised here.

 

v BODHGAYA MULTIMEDIA MUSEUM

 

At this museum, Lord Buddha's life is presented in a visual format with the help of 3D animation movies. The show, divided into four sections covering history, geographical coverage and thoughts of Lord Buddha, is comprehensive and is presented in an engaging manner. It was set up with an aim to give a glimpse of the life of Buddha in the most interesting way possible. It covers his journey from childhood to the time he attained nirvana (enlightenment).

 

v CENRAL SIKH MUSEUM

 

It exhibits paintings of saints, Sikh gurus, warriors and other important Sikh leaders. One can also find a rich collection of ancient manuscripts, arms and coins here. Along with a well-stocked library, the museum houses paintings by Sikh artists, musical instruments, pencil sketches and guns. Relics from Guru Gobind Singh's personal collection are also housed, which include a wooden comb (kangha), bow and arrows, iron chakras (circles) worn on the turban by a warrior and an iron jacket made of wires (sanjoe). 

 

v COIN MUSEUM

 

Established in 1980 under the Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies, Coin Museum is the only one of its kind in Asia. It boasts a fine collection of documented history of Indian currencies along with terracottas, copper-hoard objects, paintings and a number of historical artefacts. The museum displays rare and unique coins from times long gone, and traces India’s history through the coins of such dynasties and ruling houses as Ujjain, Kushana, Kshatrapa, Naga, Vallabha, Gupta, Kalachuri, Gadhaya, Parmara and more. You can also see relics from the days of the Delhi Sultanate, Malva Sultan and Mughal occupation. In addition to this, you will find punch marked coins, cast coins, and Holkar coins at this well-maintained museum. Offering a lesson in India’s rich and colourful past, Coin Museum is an absolute must-visit for children and history buffs, sure to keep you engaged for hours at a time.

 

v ETHNOLOGICAL MUSEUM

 

KIRTADS campus, Golf link Road, Chevayur. Timings: 1000-1700 hrs. Closed on public holidays. Admission free. It houses a large collection of artifacts, tools and devices used by ancient tribal communities of Kerala. 

v GOVERNMENT MUSEUM

Attached to the Gandhi Museum, the Government Museum draws a large number of visitors. It houses rare exhibits depicting the rich cultural, historical and religious heritage of Madurai. It also showcases antiques, Chinese ceramics, palm leaf manuscripts , bronze statues and urn burials. The museum showcases The most interesting section of the museum is the one that hosts artefacts from various excavations. Another section that displays Palaeolithic, Microlithic and Neolithic tools is also an interesting peek into history. It is a must visit for history and art lovers. Established in 1981 during the 5th World Tamil Conference, the museum deals with archaeology, anthropology, zoology, numismatics, botany and geology. The building where the Gandhi Museum and the Government Museum are located is known as Tamakkum Bungalow among locals. It is said that it was constructed by the Nayak Queen, Rani Mangammal (1689-1704).

 

v INDIAN MUSEUM

 

The Indian Museum is among the largest and the oldest museums in India and has rare collections of antiques, armour and ornaments, fossils, skeletons, mummies, and Mughal paintings. It was founded by the Asiatic Society of Bengal in Kolkata (Calcutta), India, in 1814. The founder curator was Dr Nathaniel Wallich, a Danish botanist. It has six sections comprising 35 galleries of cultural and scientific artefacts, namely Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, Zoology and Economic Botany. Exhibits of the museum include dinosaur skeletons, replicas of the 2nd century BC Barhut Stupa, etc. A 4,000-year-old Egyptian Mummy and the urn that is said to contain the relics of Lord Buddha are particular highlights.

 

v KOHIMA MUSEUM

 

The Kohima Museum takes visitors closer to the lives of the tribals living in Nagaland. Built with an aim to introduce tourists to the rich culture and tradition of the 16 tribal groups of Nagaland, the Kohima Museum takes visitors on an enriching tribal experience. The museum is located in Upper Bayavu Hills and displays gateposts, endemic regional animals and birds, statues, jewellery items and pillars. What makes the museum worth a visit is the fact that its exhibits beautifully depict the everyday life of the Naga people. The museum also houses life-size models that depict the costumes, weapons and jewellery worn by the people of Nagaland. If you are travelling with your kids, make sure to visit the museum as it will enhance their knowledge about the rich diversity of India.

 

v MUSEUM OF KERALA HISTORY

 

Situated in Edapally area, Museum of Kerala History greets you with a statue of sage Parsurama, who is believed to have carved the state of Kerala out of sea. As you move further, you see various interesting exhibits relating to different stages of Kerala's history. From Neolithic to modern age, the evolution is depicted through life-size figures. The museum has three galleries: Museum of Kerala History, Gallery of Modern Art and Dolls Museum. The Museum of Kerala History is the oldest and gives a history of Kerala through 36 dioramas. The Gallery of Modern Art has a collection of nearly 230 works by some of India's modern artists such as Raja Ravi Varma, MF Husain, FN Souza, Ramkinker Baij, etc. At the Doll's Museum, there are about 150 dolls that depict the culture and dance traditions of India. An unmissable event is the live sound and light show in English and Malayalam.

v PATNA MUSEUM

 

Patna Museum sits in a calm, green garden and is an ideal place to reflect and learn about the grand history of the city. Built during the British era, the museum houses a splendid collection of Mauryan and Gupta stone sculptures, some beautiful bronze Buddhist statues and early 19th century landscape paintings by Thomas and William Daniells.

 

v RBI MONETARY MUSEUM

 

An effort by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to preserve the monetary heritage of the country, this museum is a must-visit. Inside the premises, you are taken through the various systems of trade, commerce and barter that flourished over the years. Coins and currencies like gold bars, paper notes etc., of various dynasties have been exhibited here. The museum also holds fascinating quizzes and slideshows for children.

 

v RAIL MUSEUM

 

To catch a glimpse of the rail network of the country, visit the Rail Museum in Mysore, which houses a plethora of galleries highlighting the growth and development of the Indian railway network. The museum also has coaches, locomotives and a wide collection of photographs and paintings connected with the railways. Don't forget to view the rail coaches that were once used by the Maharaja of Mysore, and the Maharani's saloon carriage that was imported from the United Kingdom. Mini train rides and a kids play area are also part of the museum.

v RAJA DINKAR KELKAR MUSEUM

 

Embroidered textiles, sculptures, antique vessels of copper and swords that belonged to the bravehearts of the Peshwa empire - all this and more can be found at the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum. It was established in 1962, and houses the largest one-man collection in the world; that of Dr Dinkar Kelkar. It took him almost 40 years to collect the items, and he handed over his extensive collection to the Department of Archaeology. Inside the museum, the Institute of Musicology and Fine Arts is also housed.

 

v SIVASAGAR TAI MUSEUM

The Tai Ahom Museum or the Sivasagar Tai Museum has been established to display the artefacts and former glory of the Ahom kingdoms of past. Many historical pieces like manuscripts, swords, vestments, etc. have been preserved here – much to the history enthusiast’s delight.

v VIDISHA MUSEUM

The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) maintains this museum that boasts an eclectic collection of antiques as old as the 9th century. Some of the popular artefacts here include intricately carved sculptures of the Jain, the Shaiv and the Vaishnav traditions. The sculptures of the Sun God are quite fascinating. The museum operates from 10 am to 5 pm and remains closed every Monday.

 

v WAX MUSEUM

 

A must-visit spot, Wax museum has a vast collection of musical instruments, along with life-size statues of musicians playing instruments from India and across the world, all made in wax. The 19-gallery tour comprises 110 life-size statues and over 300 musical instruments. A statue of the erstwhile king of Mysore, Shri Krishnaraja Wadiyar, is a popular attraction amongst locals. Given its proclivity for all things musical, the museum is also known as Melody World Wax museum. The building in which it is housed is said to be over 90 years old! Carnatic, Punjabi, Middle Eastern, Chinese, Tribal, Jazz, Hip Hop and Rock music are all represented here in some form or another. Wax Museum was established in October 2010 as the brainchild of Bengaluru-based IT professional Shreeji Bhaskaran.

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